Wat Kate Na Boonyaram

Displays a mix of influences in the centre of town

What we say:

Difficult to miss in the middle of town between Benchamarachuthis and Sukhapiban Roads, this temple reflects the mixed heritage of Chanthaburi perhaps better than any other.

Chinese-style gateways open to the 200-year-old temple, which boasts a large image of Garuda (Thailand's national emblem) and the seal of King Rama V, who sanctioned a restoration of the temple in the early 1900s.

Deep reds and golds decorate the the main hall, which houses a sparkly gold Mahayana bodhisattva image of Guanyin in an unusual seated meditation posture, along with a laughing Maitreya image and Thai Theravada-style Buddha images at the main shrine. The temple is one of Chanthaburi's main landmarks, and the day market that sets up nearby is one of the best places in town to sample Thai sweets.

More details

between Benchamarachuthis and Sukhapiban Roads

Last updated: 3rd December, 2014

About the author: David Luekens
Usually found exploring Bangkok's side streets or south Thailand's islands, David Luekens is an American freelance writer & photographer who finds everyday life in Asia to be extraordinary. You can follow his travails here.